Regional

3:40 pm

Mon May 12, 2014

Martinez Urges Cities To Restrict Fireworks

As fire rages in southwestern New Mexico, Gov. Susana Martinez is urging city leaders around the state to consider limiting fireworks.

The governor sent a letter to local leaders Monday saying drought conditions, strong winds and warm temperatures have combined for high fire danger and increased risk in many parts of the state.

Martinez is urging municipalities and counties to hold meetings in the coming weeks to discuss and potentially vote on local restrictions or bans on the use of fireworks.

Under state law, local governments must approve drought-based fireworks restrictions at least 20 days before a holiday that allows the sale of fireworks. Cities and counties can ban the sale and use of certain fireworks — firecrackers and aerial fireworks, such as roman candles and bottle rockets.

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